Delays continue on MARC and Amtrak between D.C. and Baltimore

A power system problem delayed many trains at Union Station. (WTOP/Laurie Cantillo)

UPDATE, Friday – 1:45 p.m. ET – Amtrak says the delays began around 8 a.m. on Friday due to a problem with sagging power lines near Baltimore. The damage has been mostly repaired, but passengers should still expect some delays.

Some Friday afternoon MARC service may be affected, as well. MARC says southbound passengers should consider the Camden Line. Another option is the B30 local bus from BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport to Metro. MARC tickets are being honored by Metro.

UPDATE, Friday – 1/25/2013, 12:33 p.m. ET – MARC says service between Baltimore and Washington has been restored, although some afternoon service may be affected.

UPDATE, Friday – 1/25/2013, 11:10am ET – Amtrak says its trains are now moving at restricted speeds following the resolution of issues between D.C. and Baltimore. Passengers should expect residual delays.

The problem is in the Baltimore area and is keeping rails from running between D.C. and Baltimore. Amtrak is not running trains north through Baltimore.

Departures to and from Union Station are delayed until at least 10 a.m. and MARC’s Penn line is also stopped until the problem is fixed.

Some cancellations and alternations will be made, with other trains accommodating passengers.

Penn Line tickets will be cross-honored at Muirkirk, Laurel and Savage stations. WMATA will honor MARC tickets closer to the D.C. area.

Those who have paid for Amtrak tickets but choose not to use them because of the delays can get a refund or a voucher for future trips. Some online reservations can be changed or canceled either through Amtrak.com or through the free Amtrak mobile app.